Resource: Shoulder Instability

Proper function of the shoulder complex is essential in most sports performance. As the most mobile joint with six degrees of freedom, the greatest challenge is to maintain shoulder stability during movement. Sports that require overhead activities like swimming, tennis and cricket are in the high risk group for unstable shoulders. Patient history may reveal a traumatic incident where the shoulder was dislocated, repetitive microtrauma from sporting activities or even non-traumatic cases where the shoulder feels like it “pops” out. The situation is evident in people with general joint hyperlaxity. A proper shoulder history and appropriate clinical tests will help to diagnose an unstable should